Want to improve this question? Update the question so it's on-topic for Stack Overflow.
Closed 11 years ago.
开发者_Python百科 Improve this questionI'm a comp sci student and I need to fill out my math electives. Which would apply more to programming and computer science? Hell, which would be more useful altogether?
Elementary Calculus or Linear Algebra?
There are both second tier classes (level two) and I can only choose one.
If it boils down to a coin toss, I'll go with which ever fits into my schedule better... But really, I'd like to know which is best...
Thanks!
I have spent more than a decade working in very advanced linear algebra, so you might think I would recommend linear algebra. In fact, I recommend calculus. The reason is simple: if someone hasn't learned linear algebra, I can teach them the basics very quickly, assuming they already know calculus. If they haven't mastered calculus, they wouldn't be as competitive for a job and they wouldn't know enough to begin a lot of different optimization methods, which can be applicable to many types of functions, not just those that arise in typical linear algebra manipulations. Teaching the methods of calculus simply takes a lot more time and effort than that for linear algebra, at least at the level of a basic education.
Throw a coin because they both are.
You could assign to one but, attempt two.
Linear Algebra is more immediately applicable in a computational setting, but the distinction is very slight, and I think you'll get more value overall from learning calculus (and even that's a line-call).
I think you'll find more beneficial knowledge in linear algebra. Calculus will be more likely applicable to an Engineering setting, but linear algebra can come into play in many programming endeavors. Particularly in Video Game development, where most young programmers aspire to be :-)
In my experience, Linear Algebra if you go into graphics, otherwise neither. You mileage may vary
精彩评论